Jenny Patrickson has been working in the leisure industry for more than 30 years. She has been working at Active IQ since 2014, and serves as the company's MD.

Tell us about your career

I started my career as a professional dancer, before moving into fitness as a group exercise instructor. I realised that I needed to gain the relevant qualifications and completed a range of vocational qualifications in exercise & fitness, whilst attending the University of Bath to study Health & Exercise Science. I achieved an honours degree in Adult Education as a part time student whilst working as a tutor, assessor and quality assurer for a fitness training provider, where I was also involved in curriculum development and resource development. I gave up teaching after my second child was born and began to work with awarding bodies. During my time at the first organisation I quickly progressed through a number of roles, including regional verifier, lead verifier, European project manager and executive director.

Why did you want to get into the industry?

I love to move! Teaching group fitness was a natural progression from dance, and then training was a natural progression from that. Whether it’s been via a training provider or an awarding organisation, I’m passionate about helping people gain qualifications in health and fitness, knowing that all they will go on to engage more people in physical activity and healthy lifestyles.

What are your career goals?

To continue to grow, develop and diversify as a leader, to build on my knowledge, skills and experience, all while remaining within the physical activity sector, which I remain passionate about.

What has been the proudest moment of your career?

My proudest moment would be when Active IQ won Supplier of the Year at last year’s ukactive Flame Awards. It was a very proud moment for everyone as we worked very hard behind the scenes to ensure we continue to drive and raise the standards in providing high quality qualifications for the industry as well as meeting employer and industry demands. We really took the time to understand what our customers are looking for when it comes to employee development and launched several new qualifications in light of this. I was very proud of my amazing team whose vision, hard work and dedication made it all possible.

I'm passionate about helping people qualify to engage others in physical activity